Names, brands, writing, and the language of commerce.

May 23, 2007

Out of the Mouths of Toons

From the 399th episode, which aired last Sunday, further evidence of why The Simpsons is the darling of linguists everywhere. "24 Minutes" was a parody of 24, broadcast on The Simpsons' own Fox Network.

Principal Skinner: Just how wide is the Web?

Lisa: World.

* * *

Marge Simpson, preparing for the Springfield bake sale as the digital clock ticks down: The pre-heat is on!

* * *

Principal Skinner, hovering over Lisa's shoulder as she brings up a schematic of Springfield Elementary School on her computer: Enhance! Enhance!

[And then, when the zoom image reveals "Skinner Stinks" carved into a desk:]